INEC Accused of Partiality in Ekiti Governorship Election
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has been accused of partiality in the conduct of the recently concluded Ekiti State governorship election. The National Coordinator of the Democratic Integrity Forum, Barr. Godwin Omini, stated that the election has once again brought serious concerns about INEC’s conduct and neutrality to the forefront. Omini argued that these concerns raise profound questions about INEC’s ability to serve as an impartial umpire in the 2027 general elections.
Allegations of Collusion and PVC Transfer
Omini alleged that INEC officials colluded with the All Progressives Congress (APC) to facilitate the transfer of approximately 400,000 uncollected Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) to the ruling party. According to a statement issued on Monday, June 22, 2026, these cards were reportedly distributed to non-indigenes in a manner that compromised the electoral process and undermined the will of genuine voters in Ekiti State. The Democratic Integrity Forum leader lamented that this alleged collaboration points to a troubling pattern of partiality that erodes public confidence in Nigeria’s electoral system.
Access to Sensitive Voter Data
Omini cited a post by Lere Olayinka showing the PVC date of an aspirant of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), suggesting that sensitive voter data may have been accessed through allies within INEC. He warned that such access by government officials or party agents to biometric and personal data of citizens ahead of elections poses a direct threat to the integrity, confidentiality, and security of the electoral process. The Civil Society Organisation emphasized that this creates an uneven playing field when political parties or government officials can obtain voter registers, polling unit data, or other sensitive electoral information from INEC ahead of polls.
Call for Investigation and Reforms
Omini urged INEC to demonstrate accountability by conducting a full audit of voter data access and PVC distribution in Ekiti State. He called for the prosecution of any officials found complicit in partisan activities. Additionally, he appealed to Nigerians across party lines to demand immediate and thorough investigations into these allegations. “INEC must also strengthen data protection protocols to prevent unauthorised access and reassure the public through transparent reforms that ensure free, fair, and credible elections,” Omini stated.
President Tinubu’s Reaction
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu reacted to the election outcome by urging Governor Biodun Oyebanji to unite the people of Ekiti State after his electoral victory. Tinubu commended law enforcement for ensuring a peaceful gubernatorial election on Saturday, June 20, 2026. The Federal Government promised support for Governor Oyebanji's administration and the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Election Results and Public Reaction
Governor Oyebanji won the Ekiti governorship election with 319,224 votes, defeating candidates from the PDP and ADC. He became the first governor in Ekiti to be re-elected for a consecutive term. Nigerians expressed mixed reactions on social media following the victory announcement, with many echoing concerns about electoral integrity.
